Another name for this machine is a radio-controlled aircraft, which is nothing but a miniature flying vehicle. It may look like a training model, but there is a significant difference – it is possible to control it from a distance. For this purpose, they utilize a transmitter that you can hold in hand, which passes on signal to a receiver inside the machine.
The History of Pilot Radio-Controlled Airplanes
Just like any other invention, RC planes have some history. The first version of this vehicle, known as electronically administered model airplanes, appeared in the nineteenth century. It was a model airship full of hydrogen. These vehicles were flown around theatrical auditoriums as music hall acts and utilized a rather plain version of the spark-emitted radio signal.
When the Second World War started, the Army and Navy of the United States utilized radio-controlled aircraft as drones for artillery targets. The machines were known as radioplanes.
They became a hobby around 20 years ago. Since then, there have been a number of improvements in terms of weight, price, performance, etc. Currently, you can purchase an item of any style and model.
If you ever go to Indiana, you should visit the National Model Aviation Museum because it has the biggest collection dedicated to the history of RC aviation. That’s the place where you can see pieces from each era of these vehicles collected from different parts of the world.
Current Trends of Pilot RC Airplanes
Modern RC aircraft models are easier to use, lighter, equipped with more powerful motors, and have better radio control. They are made of durable materials, so there are fewer chances that they will be ruined during the very first flight. Initially, it was wood covered with paper. Later, they started using plastic films and carbon fiber for RC airplanes production. These days, it’s expanded polypropylene and polystyrene and foam that ensure the resilience and durability of these vehicles.
The design has also been improved, so you can purchase an aircraft that looks and flies like a real one. Some of these machines are advanced, meaning they are not suitable for beginners but for more skilled users.
A few years back, you could only purchase a plane with one of two channels that were more suitable for children and not for pilots. These days, you can purchase three-channel or even four-channel machines (fully functional) that are more complicated when it comes to controlling. This 4-channel control system resembles the one of a full-sized aircraft. The four channels are vertical and horizontal stabilizers, controls engine and roll. If we go into tech terminology, they are called rudder, elevator, throttle, and ailerons, respectively.
Another improvement that has been added to modern RC aircraft is cameras. They are more expensive but able to capture wonderful footage. You are free to upload it later to your PC or mobile phone.
One more thing that appeared recently is safe technology. The purpose of this add-on is to keep your machine stable in the air to prevent possible damages.
The popularity of remote-control aircraft is growing, so we may expect more and more improvements and impressive features to come.
Real or Virtual Flight: What to Choose?
A flight simulator is another invention associated with flights and aircraft. The point is that it recreates a real-life flight. The distinguishing part is that everything looks real, from design to the environment. Therefore, people who use this machine receive real-life experience and try to overcome a number of problems that may occur during flight. Computer simulators are often used to train pilots, so they can be useful.
However, this remote-control plane is way better when it comes to flight. It will give you the feelings and emotions that you can only receive if you fly a plane in the air. You are the one who decides where your vehicle will go, how fast it will go, and how it will reach the destination. You control the situation and can face real challenges. No virtual flight simulator can make you feel like that. Consequently, remote-control aircraft are distinctly better than virtual flight devices.
Wrap-Up
Modern people are lucky because they can access a wide variety of devices that are improving with each passing year. If aircraft is your hobby, then you can purchase a remote-control machine that will not disappoint you because it will look and fly like a real counterpart. Furthermore, there are more improvements to come since these vehicles are in great demand. So, purchase a remote-control aircraft and experience these amazing feelings yourself.